By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 09, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Cystitis
Herbal tinctures for cystitis are concentrated liquid extracts derived from plants, used to alleviate symptoms of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
These tinctures help by reducing inflammation, combating bacteria, and soothing the bladder. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with cystitis include Stinging Nettle, Uva Ursi, and Marshmallow Root. By using these tinctures, individuals can reduce frequency and urgency of urination, alleviate burning sensations while urinating, and experience relief from pain and discomfort.
This improves lives by allowing people to manage symptoms naturally, reducing the need for antibiotics and antihistamines.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for cystitis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Arctostaphylos uva ursi
- 2. Althaea officinalis
- 3. Solidago virgaurea
- 4. Urtica dioica
- 5. Zingiber officinale
- 6. Taraxacum officinale
- 7. Agathosma betulina
- 8. Salix alba
- 9. Achillea millefolium
- 10. Zea mays
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for cystitis?
- What ailments similar to cystitis are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Arctostaphylos uva ursi
Bearberry tinctures helps with cystitis because of its natural antibacterial properties that target the bacterial infection causing the condition.
The tannins present in bearberry extract have anti-inflammatory effects, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with cystitis. Additionally, bearberry's astringent properties help to reduce urination frequency and soothe the bladder lining, providing relief from burning sensations during urination.
By addressing the root causes of cystitis, bearberry tinctures offer a holistic approach to managing symptoms and promoting urinary tract health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arctostaphylos uva ursi tinctures that help with cystitis.
- Uvaursenone: This phenolic compound has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate the symptoms of cystitis by reducing bacterial growth and inflammation in the urinary tract.
- Arctiopicrin: This triterpenoid saponin has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help combat bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in the urinary tract, thus providing relief from cystitis symptoms.
- Arctostaphyloside: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and modulate the immune response in the urinary tract, thereby alleviating cystitis symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of bearberry used to make tinctures for cystitis.
- Leaves: Used for their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe and reduce inflammation in the urinary tract.
- Barks: Utilized for their antimicrobial and astringent properties to help combat bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in the urinary tract.
- Roots: Employed for their anti-inflammatory and astringent properties to help reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation in the urinary tract.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bearberry for cystitis.
- Gather 250g of fresh or dried uva ursi berries and chop them into smaller pieces.
- Combine the chopped berries with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Allow the mixture to macerate for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a separate container.
- Store the tincture in a dark glass bottle with a dropper lid and label it clearly.
2. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow tinctures helps with cystitis because of its soothing properties, which provide relief from inflammation and discomfort associated with this condition.
The saponin-rich extract of marshmallow root coats the urinary tract lining, reducing irritation and pain caused by bacterial infections or allergic reactions. Additionally, herbal marshmallow tincture has anti-inflammatory properties that help to alleviate bladder spasms and burning sensations often experienced during cystitis episodes.
As a result, it can provide natural and effective relief from cystitis symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with cystitis.
- Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates help soothe the bladder and urinary tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with cystitis.
- Gallic acid: As a phenolic compound, gallic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate the pain and inflammation caused by cystitis.
- Mucilages: These thick, protective substances help form a protective barrier on the bladder and urinary tract mucosa, reducing irritation and inflammation, and providing relief from cystitis symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for cystitis.
- Roots: They are the primary source of mucilage, a key component in treating cystitis due to its soothing and protective properties.
- Leaves: Leaves are rich in mucilage and other compounds that help alleviate inflammation and promote healing in the urinary tract.
- Barks: The bark of Althaea officinalis is also used for its mucilaginous properties, which aid in reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with cystitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for cystitis.
- Gather 1 part althaea officinalis root and 2 parts vodka for tincture base in a clean glass jar.
- Combine the root material with 70 proof vodka in a 1:2 ratio by volume and seal the jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow extraction to occur.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into another clean glass container discarding the solids.
- Transfer the liquid to smaller glass bottles with dropper lids and label them for storage and use.
3. Solidago virgaurea
Goldenrod tinctures helps with cystitis because its potent anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe and calm the irritated bladder lining, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
The herb's antimicrobial activity also helps to combat the bacterial infection that often causes cystitis, alleviating symptoms such as burning while urinating and frequent trips to the bathroom.
Additionally, goldenrod's natural astringent properties can help to shrink swollen tissues, promoting healing and relief from pain and discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Solidago virgaurea tinctures that help with cystitis.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Solidago virgaurea, such as quercetin and kaempferol, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with cystitis.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids like ferulic acid and sinapic acid in Solidago virgaurea tinctures have antimicrobial properties that can help combat bacterial infections contributing to cystitis.
- Saponins: Saponins in Solidago virgaurea, such as polyhydroxylated triterpenes, have astringent properties that can help reduce inflammation and soothe the urinary tract, potentially alleviating cystitis symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of goldenrod used to make tinctures for cystitis.
- Roots: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to help soothe and protect the bladder and urinary tract.
- Leaves: Utilized for their diuretic and antimicrobial properties to aid in flushing out bacteria and reducing inflammation in the urinary tract.
- Flowers: Employed for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to help reduce pain and discomfort associated with cystitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenrod for cystitis.
- Gather 250 grams of dried solidago virgaurea flowers and 75% ethanol to make the tincture.
- Combine the dried solidago virgaurea flowers and ethanol in a clean glass container with a lid.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow extraction.
- Strain the liquid from the solidago virgaurea flowers using a cheesecloth or a coffee filter.
- Filter the resulting tincture through a paper filter and store it in a dark glass bottle.
4. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle tinctures helps with cystitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and discomfort in the urinary tract.
The tannins present in stinging nettle also have a soothing effect on the bladder lining, alleviating burning sensations and irritation often associated with cystitis.
Additionally, stinging nettle's antimicrobial properties may help combat bacterial infections that can exacerbate symptoms of cystitis, providing natural relief for individuals suffering from this common condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica tinctures that help with cystitis.
- Alkaloids: These compounds help to reduce inflammation and soothe the bladder walls, alleviating symptoms of cystitis.
- Phenolics: Flavonoids present in Urtica dioica tinctures have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to combat the oxidative stress and inflammation associated with cystitis.
- Triterpenes: Ursolic acid, a triterpene found in Urtica dioica, has been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to combat bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in the bladder, alleviating symptoms of cystitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for cystitis.
- Leaves: They are rich in histamine-releasing compounds that help stimulate the body's natural response to fight off the infection causing cystitis.
- Roots: The roots contain compounds with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that aid in reducing inflammation and fighting off infections in the urinary tract.
- Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica contain flavonoids, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with cystitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for cystitis.
- Gather 100g of fresh urtica dioica leaves and flowers in the morning when they are at their peak potency.
- Chop the urtica dioica plant material into small pieces to increase its surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped urtica dioica with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar and let it steep for 2-3 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar to separate the plant material from the tincture.
- Transfer the resulting tincture to dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids and store them in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
5. Zingiber officinale
Ginger tinctures helps with cystitis because it has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and pain in the urinary tract.
The bioactive compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria and viruses that can cause UTIs. Additionally, ginger's natural antibacterial and antiviral properties help to soothe and calm the bladder lining, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with cystitis.
This natural remedy can provide relief from frequent urination, burning sensations, and other symptoms of this common condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with cystitis.
- Gingerols: These sesquiterpene compounds help alleviate cystitis symptoms by reducing inflammation and pain due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols have potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which help alleviate the discomfort and pain associated with cystitis.
- 6-gingerol: As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, 6-gingerol helps protect the urinary tract from oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially reducing the severity of cystitis symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for cystitis.
- Roots: Ginger roots are also widely used, as they contain similar compounds to rhizomes and are often used interchangeably in herbal medicine.
- (optional) buds: Ginger buds, being a tender and less fibrous part of the plant, can also be used to make tinctures, but their use is less common compared to rhizomes and roots.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for cystitis.
- Harvest fresh zingiber officinale roots in the morning when the dew is still present on the plants.
- Wash the harvested roots thoroughly with water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Chop the cleaned roots into small pieces using a knife or a root cutter to increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped roots with 80 proof vodka or ethanol in a ratio of 1:2 in a glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the jar daily.
6. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with cystitis because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and pain in the urinary tract.
The herb's diuretic properties also increase urine production, flushing out bacteria and toxins that can exacerbate infection symptoms. Additionally, dandelion tinctures may help to restore the bladder's natural pH balance, reducing irritation and inflammation caused by bacterial overgrowth.
By addressing these underlying factors, dandelion tinctures can provide effective relief from cystitis symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with cystitis.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce inflammation and combat bacterial infections associated with cystitis.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin has been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help alleviate symptoms of cystitis such as pain and discomfort.
- Saponins: The saponins present in Taraxacum officinale may help soothe and protect the bladder and urinary tract, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for cystitis.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help relieve cystitis symptoms.
- Roots: The roots are used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help soothe and prevent infections in the urinary tract.
- Flowers: The flowers are used for their diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help increase urine production and reduce inflammation in the urinary tract.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for cystitis.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in the morning.
- Chop the harvested plant material into smaller pieces using a sharp knife or herb cutter.
- Combine 1 part chopped taraxacum officinale with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
7. Agathosma betulina
Buchu tinctures helps with cystitis because it has natural anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and discomfort in the urinary tract.
The herb's antiseptic qualities also help to combat bacterial infections, which can contribute to the development of cystitis. Additionally, buchu tincture's diuretic effects encourage the body to flush out toxins and excess fluids, promoting a healthier bladder and reducing the frequency and urgency of urination associated with cystitis.
By addressing these underlying causes, buchu tinctures provide effective relief from cystitis symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Agathosma betulina tinctures that help with cystitis.
- Saponins: Saponins in Agathosma betulina have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to soothe and protect the bladder lining, reducing inflammation and the risk of infection.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, particularly gallic acid and ellagic acid, in Agathosma betulina have potent antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, which help to combat oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria that can cause cystitis.
- Diterpenoids: Diterpenoids, such as 15-oxo-pimaric acid, in Agathosma betulina have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which help to modulate the immune response, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in the bladder and urinary tract.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of buchu used to make tinctures for cystitis.
- Roots: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties to help alleviate symptoms of cystitis.
- Leaves: Used for their diuretic properties to increase urine production and help flush out bacteria that cause cystitis.
- Flowers: Used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe and protect the urinary tract from infection.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic buchu for cystitis.
- Harvest 50g of fresh agathosma betulina leaves and stems in the early morning after the dew has dried.
- Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces using sharp scissors or a sharp knife.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 250ml of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discard the solids.
8. Salix alba
White willow tinctures helps with cystitis because it contains salicin, a natural compound similar to aspirin.
When taken orally, salicin is absorbed into the bloodstream and travels to the urinary tract, where it reduces inflammation and pain associated with cystitis. The anti-inflammatory properties of white willow tincture help alleviate the discomfort and burning sensation caused by the infection, providing relief from symptoms such as frequency, urgency, and painful urination.
This natural remedy can be particularly effective in treating acute cases of cystitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba tinctures that help with cystitis.
- Salicin: Helps with cystitis by acting as a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent, reducing pain and discomfort associated with the condition.
- Salicylic acid: Assists in relieving cystitis symptoms by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response, which can help to alleviate the severity of the condition.
- Tannins: Contributes to cystitis relief by possessing astringent properties, which help to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and promote a healthy balance of the urinary tract's mucous membranes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make tinctures for cystitis.
- Barks: They are used due to their astringent properties, which help reduce inflammation and soothe the urinary tract.
- Leaves: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, which help alleviate symptoms of cystitis such as pain and frequent urination.
- Stems: They are used due to their ability to provide a natural source of salicin, a compound that helps reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the urinary tract.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white willow for cystitis.
- Harvest the salix alba bark in early spring when the sap is rising for maximum potency.
- Dry the collected bark in a warm place for at least two weeks to prevent mold.
- Chop the dried bark into small pieces and measure out 500 grams for the tincture.
- Combine the chopped bark with 1000 milliliters of 80 proof ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for six to eight weeks before straining.
9. Achillea millefolium
Yarrow tinctures helps with cystitis because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce swelling and soothe irritation in the urinary tract.
The tannins present in yarrow also have astringent effects, which can help to shrink the inflamed tissues and provide relief from discomfort and burning sensations during urination.
Additionally, yarrow's natural diuretic properties can help to increase urine flow and flush out bacteria that may be contributing to the infection.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium tinctures that help with cystitis.
- Cichoric acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and soothe the bladder lining to alleviate cystitis symptoms.
- Apigenin: As a flavonoid, apigenin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help protect the bladder from oxidative stress and reduce the severity of cystitis.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid has antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent the growth of bacteria that may contribute to cystitis, thereby reducing the risk of infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make tinctures for cystitis.
- Leaves::
- Roots::
- Flowers::
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for cystitis.
- Harvest fresh achillea millefolium flowers and leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated allowing maximum potency retention.
- Chop the achillea millefolium material into small pieces to increase surface area for better solvent penetration.
- Combine 1 part chopped achillea millefolium with 2 parts 80 proof ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks shaking the jar daily to aid extraction.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container discarding the solids.
10. Zea mays
Corn tinctures helps with cystitis because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe and calm the urinary tract, reducing inflammation and irritation.
The antimicrobial properties of corn tinctures also help to combat bacterial infections, which are a common cause of cystitis.
Additionally, the natural flavonoids present in corn tinctures have antioxidant properties that help to reduce oxidative stress, promoting healing and reducing the severity of symptoms such as burning sensations during urination.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zea mays tinctures that help with cystitis.
- Saponins: Saponins in Zea mays may help soothe the bladder and reduce inflammation associated with cystitis by creating a protective barrier and promoting the expulsion of bacteria.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids like ferulic acid in Zea mays may exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help mitigate the oxidative stress and inflammation that contribute to cystitis symptoms.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Zea mays may aid in reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of the bladder lining, thereby alleviating the discomfort and pain associated with cystitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of corn used to make tinctures for cystitis.
- Seeds: The seeds are used to make tinctures for cystitis because they contain diosgenin, a saponin compound that has anti-inflammatory properties and can help alleviate symptoms of cystitis.
- Leaves: The leaves are used to make tinctures for cystitis because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe and protect the urinary tract.
- Flowers: The flowers are used to make tinctures for cystitis because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and combat infections in the urinary tract.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic corn for cystitis.
- Harvest zea mays in its mature stage with at least 1/4 inch of stem and root intact for tincture quality.
- Dry zea mays in a single layer at 25 degrees celsius for 7-10 days to prevent mold growth.
- Chop dried zea mays into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area for extraction.
- Combine 1 part zea mays with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar for a 1:2 ratio.
- Steep zea mays and vodka mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks to allow extraction.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for cystitis?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with cystitis is a blend of Uva Ursi, Juniper Berry, and Marshmallow Root.
Uva Ursi helps to reduce inflammation and combat bacterial infections, while Juniper Berry aids in relieving pain and promoting urination. Marshmallow Root soothes the bladder and urinary tract, reducing irritation and discomfort. This combination can be taken in a diluted form, typically 20-30 drops per glass of water, and should be repeated as needed to alleviate cystitis symptoms.
Consult a healthcare professional for proper usage.
What ailments similar to cystitis are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to cystitis/tinctures.html">cystitis/tinctures.html">cystitis that are treated with herbal tinctures are urinary tract infections, interstitial cystitis, and overactive bladder.
Herbal remedies like Staphysagria, Berberis, and Uva ursi help to soothe the bladder and reduce inflammation, while others like Juniperus and Apium may help to relieve pain and discomfort associated with these conditions.